Page 7 of Reaching Roland

“As much as I think he should do it,” Luca interjected. “I think he should consider his own comfort, as well. I suggested that he talk to Anson about writing up a testimonial that they can post on their website and/or put in one of their brochures instead. Maybe work up to fundraising in person in time. Or not. Whatever he decides.”

“I like that idea, too.” I poured and doctored all of our coffees, then carried them over to the table. “So what's this really about? You're very rarely indecisive. Talk to me.”

Indie raised troubled eyes to meet my gaze across the table. “The first major fundraiser I'd be speaking at would be at the Takoda Lodge. You know my father probably spends all his time there now, especially since you stopped letting them come here to hang out.”

“Ah, yes.” After my Rhonda died, the men had all congregated at my house on a fairly regular basis to play cards and drink, but those days were definitely over. Now that time had passed since I learned of Bart’s sins, I could admit to myself that, with the exception of a couple, I didn’t particularly like any of them. They’d been Rhonda and my friend group, but most of that stemmed from the women being her friends. Some of the husbands, especially Bart, had never been my flavor.

“Anyway…” Indie clapped his hands together, pulling me out of my wandering thoughts. “Anson asked me to think about it, and I will, but I’ll let you ponder it for a while and get back to me. I wanted to talk to you about something else, too.”

I nodded my head, grateful that he’d offered me an out. I thought he’d make an excellent speaker—his story was compelling, and he had an air about him that drew others in. There was no doubt in my mind that people would dig deep into their pockets to support this worthy organization and what they were doing for others in the community if they heard his testimony.

But another part of me just wanted him to speak his truth at the lodge so that everyone would know exactly how terrible a person Bart was, but I didn’t want him to do that at his own emotional expense. He was right; there was a chance his dad would be there, and I didn’t want him anywhere near my kid. He’d never been a worthy father to Indie. “Alright, let me just say this, and we’ll move on. I agree with Cameron. Whatever you want to do,I’ll back you up. And if you decide to speak down at the lodge, I promise you, I’ll be by your side.”

He popped up out of his seat, ran over, and hugged my shoulder. “I know, Rolly. Thank you. I love you.” I scooted around enough to wrap an arm around his thin frame and hold him close. How anyone could forsake this wonderful human was beyond me.

He pulled back and wiped a hand across his eyes, sniffling a little. “Now, I think it’s time to figure out your relationship situation.”

Not this again. Holding up my hand in a stop motion, I said, “Don’t. I don’t want to hear another word about Kenny calling me Daddy.”

His eyes still shimmered wet, but the rest of his face transformed to one of mischievous glee as his gaze slid to Luca, who quirked a brow. “Interesting,” he murmured.

Indie’s lips rolled in like he was fighting laughter as he slumped back into his seat. “No, I wasn’t going to mention the stunning hair stylist at all.”

“Oh. Uh, well…” Why the hell was I so flustered? Kenny was a bit of a flirt, but he was more than likely that way with everyone. I shook my head to clear it. “Then what were you going to say?”

“Grandma said you went over and fixed her cuckoo clock.”

“I did.”

Luca leaned in. “That was nice of you.”

They both stared at me expectantly. “Okay, what am I missing?” Surely they didn’t think there was something going on with me and the eighty-six-year-old woman. I adored her, but…

“It’s curious how much you’ve been helping out the seniors in her neighborhood.” Indie leaned back, crossing his arms over his chest.Weird.

“I have. What’s the big deal? You know I’ve always liked helping others out. Until this thing with your dad, I helped him open his pool every summer. Two years ago, I helped Pete with his roof. I like keeping busy, and it gets me out of the house.”

“Uh-huh.”

I snorted. “Look, I don’t know what you two are insinuating, but it’s no big deal. The development Miss Georgina is in only provides so much. They keep the lawns maintained and take care of the structures, but they don’t fix personal things. I’d think you’d be pleased I help them out.”

“Oh, I am. But I’d like you to admit that you’d rather be doing that than working.”

“I’m sure most people would, but I’ve got to make a living, son. I won’t be retiring for years.”

Luca huffed. “I think what he’s trying to say is that maybe you should make a change. We all see how much you enjoy handyman-type work.”

I peered at them closely and realized they were completely serious. Barking out a laugh, I rose from the table and walked over to the sink to rinse out my mug. “That’s hilarious.”

Indie’s nose squished up as he frowned. “We’re being serious.”

Turning back around, I leaned against the edge of the counter again. “Guys, you’re not wrong. I really enjoy tinkering and fixing things, but it’s not something to build a career off of. Especially not at my age.” I lifted my shoulder and let it fall.“Is my job monotonous and boring at this point? Yes. Would I prefer not wearing a suit every day? Of course. But this is what adults do. In the meantime, I like how things are. I’ve got you kids, and I help out where I can. I’m content. Don’t go borrowing trouble where there isn’t any. I’m fine. Now, who wants to come out to the garage and see the cedar chest I fixed the legs on and stained for Mr. Goldstein? It’s almost finished.”

As they followed me, I pretended not to hear their whispered conversation.

“He forgot to mention that he also goes to visit Kenny every Thursday.”

“And why does he always call himself old? He’s a total silver fox. And his body is banging.”

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